TO CELEBRATE last September's National Heritage Weekend, and in recognition of Sedbergh’s own heritage, the popular Dales town transformed itself into a giant art gallery with every street and alley awash with a glorious display of 118 amazing sheep made by local businesses, voluntary organisations, schools and individuals.

Farfield Mill, which initiated the Sheepfest project, was also wall to wall creativity.

The heads of two giant rams peered down on Finkle Street and the harpist from the early music group Corn’ewe’copia - her fleece made from music scores - entertained the crowds.

Outside the vets a ewe stood patiently as children queued to deliver her lamb and a daredevil tup complete with helmet and wheelchair from Bendrigg Lodge, the residential activity centre for young people with disabilities, abseiled down the church tower.

Meanwhile, a Technicolour Dreamcoat made of squares woven by more than 600 local schoolchildren - each with its secret dream attached – took pride of place. All these complemented by music, street entertainers, exhibitions, theatre, street food, workshops and craft displays.

From Saturday, September 12 until Sunday, September 20, it’s all happening again with no doubt visitors from far and wide flocking into town.

Put together by Farfield chairman Anne Pierson, Sheepfest, was so successful in 2014 it has been extended to nine days, and to tie in with 2015 being the Chinese Year of the Sheep, Anne says that this year there’ll be a distinctly oriental feel to the celebrations.

"Pagoda Arts Centre in Chinatown, Liverpool, is bringing its Chinese Youth Orchestra and holding a range of workshops from tai chi to drumming to fan-making and local children are learning traditional Chinese dances," adds Anne.

"And at the heart of Sheepfest will always be the wonderful sheep - a flock of real rough fell will open the event on the Saturday. This year some very colourful guests are arriving from China to take their place among the rough fell and the herdwicks; including the most amazing dragon."

For full details of the programme visit Farfield Mill’s website www.farfieldmill.org.